Very interesting. In the USA every PhD should have to earn a CC license and be awarded a 9mm or .45 cal. pistol AND demonstrate proficiency with said pistol on the school range.

I’d make it a lever gun of their choosing, because that’s what Jesus would carry!

Got the PhD, got the CC, got the lever gun, but no sword…though I would like one.

a man is not decently dressed without a decent wallet, a quality watch, and a means of self defense.

There’s always the Knights of Columbus for snazzy regalia and swords. Bonus round… a cape!

The marks of a gentleman for those lower class scholarship students.